The move was supported by Mr Razak's loyalists at the ruling United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) party, which has led all of the country's ruling multi-ethnic coalitions since Malaysia's formation in 1957.

He and his father have been calling for the resignation of Mr Razak over a long-running financial scandal that has gripped Malaysia.

"The true reason for this action against me is due to my criticism of the prime minister, as he himself has admitted," Mr Muhkriz said in a statement read out at a press conference.

Critics have said that the money received by the prime minister came from the fund, accusations that Mr Najib has consistently denied.

In January, the country's attorney-general's office said the deposit was a personal donation from the Saudi royal family.

The prime minister's office said in a statement that Mr Mukhriz had lost majority support because he faced a lack of confidence and there were concerns about preparations for the party to retain Kedah in the 2018 elections.